'Rs 4-6 crore curtains to expensive installations': PWD unveils ‘lavish’ inventory of Arvind Kejriwal’s former residence
PTC News Desk: The Public Works Department (PWD) unveiled on Sunday an inventory of the infamous "Sheesh Mahal," a lavish bungalow formerly occupied by former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, revealing amenities worth more than Rs 100 crore. However, Delhi Chief Minister Atishi has referred to it as "dirty politics".
The huge 21,000-square-foot residence is said to have been renovated with very expensive fittings and renovations, which was seen as a violation of the norms that any CM and public servant must follow. In fact, this turned into such a political battle that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused the former Chief Minister of not being "aam aadmi" and misusing public funds.
Among the lavish features of "Sheesh Mahal" are 16 Ultra Slim Smart 4K TVs, each costing Rs 64 lakh, and motorised window curtains worth between Rs 4-6 crore. The residence also features expensive recliner sofas valued at Rs 10 lakh, showing a luxurious lifestyle that has sparked public outrage and criticism. The inventory was compiled at the request of the Delhi Chief Minister's Office, which is preparing to transition the property to the next Chief Minister, Atishi Marlena.
The revelations come in the wake of claims that Kejriwal misused taxpayer funds for personal luxury.
In May 2023, media reports first highlighted his administration's extravagant spending on his personal residence, causing public uproar. The shocking level of luxury found in the "Sheesh Mahal" sparked serious concerns about the priorities of elected leaders who claim to represent the common people.
The inventory includes not just the expensive televisions, but also a smart LED TV at Rs 19.5 lakh, an OSADA full body massage chair priced at Rs 4 lakh, and a Bose loudspeaker worth Rs 4.5 lakh. The kitchen includes high-end goods such as smart refrigerators with built-in TVs and AI vision screens, priced at Rs 9 lakh, a 73-litre steam oven at Rs 9 lakh, and a 50-litre microwave oven at Rs 6 lakh. Furthermore, a BOSCH Series 8 built-in coffee machine, priced at Rs 2.5 lakh, enters the list of expensive kitchen gadgets.
In terms of infrastructure, the residence has a superior water supply and sanitary facilities of Rs 15 crore. It also includes wooden and glass doors with automated sliding sensors, which cost Rs 70 lakh, as well as 24 decorated pillars that cost Rs 36 lakh. The lavishness extends to the lighting fixtures, with 20 magnificent aged brass entry sconce outdoor lights at Rs 10 lakh adding to the residence's aesthetic appeal.
- PTC NEWS
